French Air Force Rafale fighters deployed at the Siauliai air base in Lithuania, located about 130 kilometers from the Russian border, attempted to intercept Russian Su-30SM aircraft, according to Military Watch Magazine. The report states that French pilots used the TALIOS targeting pod to visually identify targets at long range.

The Russian aircraft were reportedly equipped with Kh-31 anti-radiation missiles designed to suppress air defense systems. The armament of the French fighters was not specified.

The incident occurred shortly after French aviation began another rotation as part of NATO’s Baltic air policing mission. At the same time, French Leclerc tanks were conducting live-fire exercises in Romania near the border with Ukraine.

Experts note that the Su-30SM is considered the most powerful fighter in Russia’s naval aviation. Its AL-41 °F-1S engines are regarded as among the most powerful in the fourth-generation class. The Rafale, in contrast, is equipped with M88 engines, which are weaker, reflecting differences in design concepts and aircraft size. Analysts assess that the performance gap between Russian and French fighters will continue to grow.

Rafale jets arrived at the Siauliai base in early April. The official reason given is NATO airspace patrol duties. At the same time, these aircraft are capable of carrying cruise missiles and striking deep into Russian territory. French leadership has openly taken a hard line, with President Emmanuel Macron repeatedly stating the possibility of sending ground troops to ensure that Russia does not win the war.